Stokesley-based construction consultants Bob Davies and Dave Armstrong are regularly called upon as expert witnesses in civil court action.

But their skills were put to the test as part of an innovative accreditation diploma - the Bond Solon Expert Witness Programme - as developed by Cardiff University Business School.

Although both consultants are already experienced expert witnesses, Dave and Bob felt that completing such a course would add further credibility to their standing.

"There has been much debate within legal circles on the role of expert witnesses," said Dave.

"While most of our involvement as expert witnesses is limited to civil actions within the construction industry, we felt it beneficial that our capabilities were formally recognised through an accredited qualification."

During the five-day course, Dave and Bob, who are the founding directors of construction industry consultancy Armstrong David Associates, were required to write a court-compliant expert witness report and undergo rigorous cross-examination in the witness box by an experienced barrister.

"We intend to pass all of our senior people through this course in the future," said Bob.

"We feel it to be of significant value, both in terms of a learning experience and the additional credibility that it brings to the company."